How to choose a sewing machine for home use

The market for sewing machines is quite well developed, but choosing the perfect machine is difficult. The assortment is wide on the store shelves: from cheap, simple models to expensive computer-controlled devices that bring joy to functions and appearance.

To help sort out the question of which sewing machine to choose for your home, how to choose a model from the parameters, below is a list of models describing important characteristics and functions.

Mechanical or electronic?

When choosing a sewing machine, you first need to figure out which model is needed - mechanical or electronic? Consider the main characteristics and comparison of these two types.

Mechanical and Electromechanical Models

The mechanical machine is the most popular home appliance found on the market. Most consumers use mechanical sewing machines. This is due to the following reasons:

easy accessibility;

low price compared to the electronic version;

the most studied devices, our grandmothers, mothers learned to sew on them, taught sewing at school;

sentimental considerations.

Electric machines differ from old samples of the last century using an electric motor. Often the revolutions of mechanical machines are regulated by a pedal (foot starter). The remaining operations are selected using mechanical dials, buttons.

Among the mechanical devices there are 2 types:

with continuously adjustable density, stitch width;

with step adjustment of the specified parameters.

Smooth adjustment gives more versatility, functionality.

Electronic cars - distinctive features

Electronic models are equipped with an electronic display and buttons that are responsible for the functions of the device.

On this device, we cannot spoil things with our own settings; a good electronic sewing machine does not accept the wrong settings that are sometimes set when using mechanical devices.

The vast majority of electronic machines have more seams than mechanical ones.

The lines can be customized, fixed in a wider range.

The remaining functions are also more.

The price is much higher.

This is a good sewing machine for a professional seamstress and amateur who spends a lot of time sewing, experimenting with a hobby.

Computerized Microprocessor Model

Working with a computerized machine is faster, brings more pleasure, creates less hassle. These devices are equipped with a microprocessor, have advanced functionality:

convenient additional function - saving your own settings;

the ability to combine functions with each other;

the ability to save your own patterns;

embroidering letters of the alphabet on the material.

Computer-controlled cars are modern, recommended for users with certain experience. The cost of these machines, as a rule, high.

Overlock

The device is designed to process the edges of materials. The name "overlock" is taken from the name of the line used to process the edges of the fabric.

Overclocking is the main function of these devices, but over time they were able to sew the elastic elements of the fabric, simultaneously with the processing of the seam.It is widely believed that for advanced home-made craftsmen it’s worth choosing an overlock machine. This is a bit wrong. These devices are relatively expensive, their utility is limited. therefore, they will only be needed by professionals who have a lot of sewing.

Feature Overview

When the buyer has already chosen the type of device of the machine, then you should explore its main functions:

number of lines;

foot selection;

shuttle device;

adjustment of pressure of a pad on a fabric;

reverse function;

sewing speed;

thread threader;

other.

Number of lines

The main characteristic of the sewing machine is the number of lines. In most cases, the lines are identical for each manufacturer, however, their number is different. The range of the number of lines is quite large:

a simple machine has 510 lines;

expensive model has up to 250 lines;

the memory function of your own settings makes the number of lines virtually unlimited.

Is the number of lines so important?

Before buying, you should find out whether the machine will be used for novice users, for simple repair of clothes, linen, or for decorative sewing, home decor. Of course, when using the main lines you can get the necessary aesthetic effect.

An important argument is the frequency of use of the device, frequency of use and the need for additional lines. It is recommended not to look at the number of lines - for a non-professional, this extended functionality is not important. More professional seamstress, it is advisable to choose a model with an expanded number of lines.

Shuttle device

Swing Shuttle- the main type of the shuttle, successfully used for many years. The general opinion is that the vertical shuttle is prone to tangling the thread. Negative points are not an easy process of threading a thread, more time spent on this manipulation. This shuttle is not suitable for quick seam processing.Video.Work of the rocking shuttle

Horizontal shuttle- there is almost no confusion in it, it is easier to refuel the bobbin, but it is more difficult to adjust the tension of the lower thread.

Rotary vertical shuttle- a modern version, which began to be used in constructions relatively recently. A machine with a computer is likely to be equipped with a rotary shuttle. In most cases, it is covered with a transparent plastic plate through which the remaining amount of thread is visible. The rotary shuttle is easier to maintain, is considered the most reliable, and is often chosen by home-made enthusiasts.Video. The work of the rotating shuttle

What are the legs - photo

Foot for delicate fabrics

For fringe

Overlock foot

Reversible zipper foot

For edge machining with adjustable guide

Foot for decorative stitching, sewing on appliqués

Set of legs for sewing beads, beads

Other functionality

To choose a suitable model, it is worth analyzing what functionality exists.

PowerThe motor affects the piercing force of the needle.In computerized machines, the power may be less with preservation of the necessary functions, due to the high efficiency.

Reverse- allows you to sew in the opposite direction. This basic function is present in all good sewing machines. Reverse is used to start and end seams. You can select the function manual and automatic reverse, where when the button is pressed, the machine performs the end of the seam.

Mirror image of each line- A useful feature that saves time. Good models have a mirror image of the vertical and horizontal.

Adjusting the pressure of the foot on the fabric.An adjustable foot is a frequently used function that allows you to press the foot with the necessary force, depending on the material.

Sewing speed adjustment- used when precision is needed or need to be embroidered at minimum speed.

Automatic threader function- it is equipped with almost all cars. The function shortens the time required for threading.

Automatic thread trimming functionused in new models, allows thread trimming with a starter.

Removable platform- obtained by removing the side of the main platform. The platform becomes narrow, allows you to sew cuffs, sleeves, hem narrow trousers.

Button Loop Processing- convenient function, it can be present in semi-automatic and automatic mode, when at the touch of a button, the machine performs loop processing.

Lighting- an important option, is present on almost any model. You can select devices equipped with a standard lamp or LEDs, halogen.

Quilting stitchallows you to sew quilts, bedspreads, jackets.

Embroidered Alphabet Embroidery- A function that allows you to quickly embroider words.

Needle position changeallows you to move the needle in a mechanical machine smoothly from the center of the foot to the left. In the electronic version of the computer adjusts the position of the needle left, right.

Review - rating of some manufacturers

Singer

Quite a well-known brand Singer produces cars with a good reputation, one of the most popular in this price segment. Machines are made qualitatively in terms of materials used and technological solutions.

As for the place of production, opinions are divided.Some say that the models produced by the holding SVP Worldwide, are made in Germany, others believe that the product is made in China. The owner of the brand does not comment on the theme of the country of production.

Husqvarna

The Husqvarna brand belongs to the same owner as the SVP Worldwide holding, which produces Singer typewriters. It uses a slightly different technology, no less interesting. Qualitatively, this is a good product with a long tradition.

Janome

One of the major players on the market is the Japanese company Janome. The brand is well-known, highly appreciated by consumers all over the world.

The choice should be well thought out.

Choosing home appliances, it is useful to collect reviews, tips of dressmakers, compare specific models. It is better to do this offline, among acquaintances who are fond of sewing, well versed in the functions and capabilities of the device. However, you can read and reviews online, carefully filtering advertising messages.

The main aspects that need to be analyzed - how much time and what we will sew - this is a small home repair, trouser filing, rare sewing, or we will sew every day, having an exciting hobby, a seamstress profession. Then you need to determine the price range and the size of the budget that you are willing to spend. Choosing a good car is not easy.There are brands cheap and more expensive, better quality or a little worse. This purchase is not cheap, so it should be well thought out.

Reviews of various models can be left and read in the form of comments.